DNR candlelight events this winter

(12/29/2010)

With so much snow on the ground already, this promises to be an exceptionally good winter for outdoor recreation. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is offering 25 candlelight events at Minnesota state parks and trails.

The closest of these to our area is on Saturday, Jan. 15, a Candlelight Ski/Walk at Harmony-Preston State Trail (Preston), 5-7p.m.

Most candle-lit trails are relatively flat and easy, so that kids and beginners can feel comfortable participating. Some parks offer rental equipment, but calling ahead to check availability and reserve it, if possible, is advisable.

Before skiers age 16 and older hit the trails, they will also need a Minnesota Ski Pass. Daily ski passes ($6) can be purchased at park offices on the night of the event, online at mndnr.gov, or from any of Minnesota’s more than 1,500 electronic license system vendors.

In case of bad weather, events may be changed or canceled. For weather updates, directions to parks, and where to get a ski pass, call the DNR Information Center toll-free at 888-646-6367 between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Information can also be found online at mndnr.gov.